Freeze on docs seized during union raids

The Australian Federal Police has agreed to refrain from handing over documents seized during its raids on the Australian Workers Union.

The AWU went to the Federal Court in Melbourne on Wednesday to ask that the search warrants on its offices and investigation be deemed invalid and that all documents be returned.

During a brief hearing the parties agreed the AFP will not hand over the documents to the Registered Organisations Commission until the matter is considered further by the court.

Frank Parry QC, for the ROC, also agreed it will not receive or retain any documents seized by police until the court makes an order.

Justice Susan Kenny noted the agreement between parties and adjourned the matter to Friday, when she expects to schedule a full hearing of the case.

Outside court, the AWU's lawyer Josh Bornstein described the warrant and use of 32 federal police as a "disgraceful overreach" and "media stunt" designed to portray the trade union movement in the worst light.

"We are talking here about an argument about paperwork," Mr Bornstein said.